"I believe in the emotional impact of the moving image. The pursuit of meaningful images and the challenge of accomplishing a tough schedule are what keep me in the game. I love making movies."

Givens was raised in North Carolina and discovered his interest in photography as a kid, learning the rules of exposure and composition by teaching himself on his 35mm Pentax SLR. His fascination with the medium continued as he began to watch more and more films.

Then something clicked.

He took this drive to make images to The University of North Carolina School of the Arts, School of Filmmaking where he learned the theory behind great storytelling and the mechanics behind the motion picture industry.

Givens shot his first feature DOG DAYS OF SUMMER with director Mark Freiburger, photographed in rural North Carolina and starring Will Patton (ARMAGEDDON). After wrapping that shoot, he moved to Los Angeles and began working his way up through the ranks, from focus puller to operator to cinematographer.

In 2013, Givens was honored by International Cinematographers Guild in the 17th Annual EMERGING CINEMATOGRAPHER AWARDS for his work on the short film, THE RIDE.

Rob has honed his ability to take leadership of a crew and provide a positive, pro-active set environment. He is confident in his efficiency and prides himself on his ability to deliver beautiful photography within the confines of a tight schedule. In April 2014 Givens lensed I'LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS, his 3rd feature collaboration with director Brett Haley, staring Blythe Danner, Martin Starr, Malin Akerman, and Sam Elliott. The film premiered to standing ovations at Sundance 2015.

Givens re-teamed with Brett Haley in 2016 to shoot THE HERO. With Sam Elliott in the leading role, the film premiered in the US Dramatic Competition at Sundance 2017. THE HERO is being released theatrically June 9th.

Rob is a member of the International Cinematographers Guild, IATSE Local 600.